Richard Justice spent a lot of time rehearsing and performing on the Imperial Theatre stage. At 2 p.m. on May 22, friends, family and members of the community will gather in that familiar location to remember him and his legacy.
“He was my best friend,” said John Hutchens, who is directing this final show for Justice, an actor, director and activist who died Aug. 27, 2020, from complications with COVID-19.
MORE: Augusta Mourns Artist and Friend
Hutchens met Justice on the set of the Augusta Players production of “Grease” when Hutchens was “such a newbie” where theater was concerned.
“I learned so much from Richard,” he said.
Justice was an integral part of the Augusta Players program according to Debi Ballas, who served as the theater’s executive director for many years.
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He started out in the theater’s youth wing and graduated to doing mainstage shows.
Ballas will deliver one of three eulogies at the celebration.
“He was a brilliant actor who possessed an extraordinary ability of transforming himself both physically and emotionally to embody each and any character he portrayed. Whether it was a drama or comedy, it didn’t matter as he was equally adept at both. His talents were not limited to acting, as he could also sing, dance and play the piano, making him ideal for plays or musical theater. There was really nothing he could not do,” she wrote in a draft of the eulogy.
Not only did Justice impact the Augusta Players, he influenced other groups. He helped start Le Chat Noir and directed productions of the fledgling Riverfront Theatre Co. in North Augusta.
“When I think about Richard the artist, I am in awe of the incredible impact he had on the arts community,” Ballas wrote.
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Justice’s impact went beyond the arts community. He was a vital part of Augusta Pride and served on its board of directors.
Lonzo Smith, Augusta Pride’s past president, will also speak, as will David Johnston, a personal friend.
The Colton Ballet Co. will present a video tribute. Justice played the role of Drosselmeyer in the annual dance production of “The Nutcracker.”
Hutchens said there will be musical tributes to Justice by many local performers during the celebration.
MORE: Remembering a Pillar of the CSRA Arts Community: Veronique Lyle Thurmond
When the event was originally planned, only 200 people would be allowed in the theater, but with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s repeal of COVID-19 related restrictions, more people will be allowed in the theater, said Hutchens, but it will not be filled to capacity. Masks will still be required.
Reservations are required to attend the 2 p.m. event. For those who cannot attend in person, a live stream will be available. For more information or to make reservations. www.richardjusticememorial.com.
Charmain Z. Brackett is the features editor for The Augusta Press. Reach her at charmain@theaugustapress.com.
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